Vermont Firefighter Training Held at Champlain Valley Expo

Vermont Firefighter Training Held at Champlain Valley Expo

It's a test of strength and endurance, the first steps that could lead to becoming a firefighter.

ESSEX JUNCTION, Vt. - It's a test of strength and endurance, the first steps that could lead to becoming a firefighter.

The Champlain Valley Expo was the proving ground for 65 firefighter candidates taking what's called the C-PAT, the candidate physical ability test. It's a 10 minute, 20 seconds of non-stop cardio while wearing a 50-pound vest.

It focuses on the most critical and strenous ground tasks facing a firefighter. Candiates must pass this entry level test first.

"It's the first glimpse of a candidates mental ability on the way to follow directon and really test their fortitude and their ambition, motivation to do this job," Chris Corbin, Vermont Fire Academy, said.

The candidates making the cut today will have eight weeks to prepare for the final test come this October.

Firefighter positions in Vermont are highly prized since there are very few openings.

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